Students are introduced to the Ramayana (Story of Rama) and recall events by sequencing related art objects on a Story Hill. Then students make connections between artistic and literary depictions of character by comparing Vishnu and Ravana.

Students will research objects from the Asian Art Museum’s collection and choose one that they think will earn the most money in the marketplace. Then, they will create a commercial to try to sell their object to the class using evidence as to why the object/idea was considered valuable at the time.

Students will: 1.) examine the Hindu tradition of pookolam—a three-dimensional threshold art using flowers; 2.) research the harvest festival of Onam celebrated in the southwestern state of Kerala, India; 3.) create an auspicious flower decoration in celebration of Onam

Students gain an appreciation and understanding of art and culture, and build language skills by reading; developing scripts; making choices about gesture, voice, and expression; and performing traditional stories alongside art objects in the Asian Art Museum’s collection galleries.

Students will: 1.) examine the Hindu tradition of threshold art; 2.) research howDiwali(Festival of Lights) is commemorated in India; 3. draw traditional labyrinth threshold patterns; 4.) work in teams to create a large labyrinth floor painting in celebration of Diwali

This selection of resources unpacks main ideas, stories, and practices of Buddhism and Hinduism in South and Southeast Asia and the Himalayas, both historically and today. All selections compliment the Buddhism and Hinduism in Art: Gods, Demons, and Avatars school tour at the Asian Art Museum.

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General support for education is provided by the Dhanam Foundation, the Koret Foundation, the John & Marcia Goldman Foundation, Dodge & Cox, The Elizabeth E. Bettelheim Family Foundation, and The Joseph & Mercedes McMicking Foundation. Support is also provided by an endowment established by The Hearst Foundations.

Major support for the Asian Art Museum’s school programs and resources is provided by the Dhanam Foundation and Daphne and Stuart Wells. Additional support is provided by an anonymous donor. Teacher professional development programs are supported by Wells Fargo.

The Asian Art Museum Storyteller Program is generously supported by the Kimball Foundation. The Asian Art Museum Docent Program is generously supported by the Dhanam Foundation and Society for Asian Art.